3. Keep your teeth firmly rooted by eating fiber-rich fruits and veggies. These also stimulate saliva and neutralize the acids that break down teeth while generally keeping your mouth clean.

4. One study found that adults who took calcium and vitamin D supplements were 40% less likely to lose their teeth. 1,000 milligrams of calcium and 600 IU of vitamin D each day may help protect your teeth.

5. Using an antimicrobial mouth wash twice a day may help prevent the growth of bacteria and plaque on and around your teeth. These lead to tooth decay.

6. Especially potentially damaging to your teeth include:

Sour candies which has a low pH, which erodes teeth.

Diet soft drinks because these are highly acidic and weaken enamel.

Opening things with your teeth. Enamel may be the hardest substance in the body, but it can still chip and break, and it never grows back.

7. Floss daily. Healthy gums need daily flossing.

8. Let your dentist know the medications you are taking and any changes to those medications. Some medications can increase your risk of tooth decay.

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